The months turned into the language that referenced ‘over a year.’ I’d say, “I’m going to start painting this week – see I’ve made an appointment with myself!” While over time everything else became a priority over painting. Heck, there were a couple of times where house cleaning was even on a higher need. And, the fear of not achieving a finished, painted product grew larger.
One of the activities, that became a priority (as in taking over my life), was my role in sitting on the board of a local non-profit. In the past I’d served on several boards and also been employed or volunteered at several other non-profits, but nothing had drawn on all my talents, skills, and abilities like my current activity.
It was at a Monday meeting for my new posting where a committee was discussing the structure of putting on events. The dialogue went from having small in-home fundraising parties to “Bobby’s an artist – I’ve seen her business card. She could do a quick sketch of the house that could be used on the invitation and then be given to the event hosts.”
There it was out, it seemed like it was stated in one long breath. First thoughts were, “No, no, no!” This was followed by a bit of shock and fear. Then, “How do I get out of here?”
While it was a fair idea to plan something like this, it wasn’t something for me to do. I don’t paint on demand! And, my assigned tasks with the non-profit are immense. I don’t have time to paint!
Now it should be said that the person who made the statement was also having a party, the invitations had already been sent and received. I was amongst those being invited. And by Wednesday, I was starting to think about what to take as a hostess gift. Yes, I could try to do something with ink and maybe watercolor.
On a foggy, gray Thursday, I drove past the event location, took a couple of pictures and hoped I had something to use. An attempt would be made to create something!
The natural lights were turned on, the paints and brushes were ready and the photo image was transferred to paper. Knowing nothing was going to appear without actually putting a brush containing paint on the paper – I started to paint.
Memories of other paintings returned, formulas remembered and, oops this isn’t going to work. This painting of a big, elegant home was just too big and complex for me to paint. So, I reduced my focus and redrew it with just the entry.
When it was close to completion, I laid a mat on it. Wow, what a difference. After it was fully dried, I slipped it into a clear protective sleeve for presenting to the hostess. Along with inviting me to a very elegant party the hostess gave me back my desire to paint again.
